Fat, Oil and Grease (FOG) Control

Allen restaurants, day cares and schools where food is prepared are required to maintain grease traps to capture fat deposits before they drain into the sewer system. This is because grease traps that are improperly or infrequently cleaned can lead to undesirable sewer overflows into the environment. On June 13, 2017, Allen City Council approved a new ordinance to prevent buildups of fat, oil and grease (FOG) in the city sewer system.

Beginning July 1, 2017, regular inspections by the City's sewer division will determine the amount of FOG material in each establishment's grease trap. Restaurants that generate a lot of grease, as evidenced by buildup in their grease traps, will require more frequent cleaning and inspection. As with all City ordinances, staff has the ability to cite generators who do not comply with cleaning schedules.